Liverpool lost 1-0 to Portuguese side SC Braga in the Europa League on Thursday night, their first European defeat of the campaign thus far.
The only goal of the game arrived midway through the first half when Alan converted a penalty following Soto Krygiakos’ rash challenge on Mossoro.
Missing their captain Steven Gerrard (injured), new talisman Luis Suarez (ineligible) and Andy Carroll on the bench, Kenny Dalglish‘s side lacked pace and creativity with five central midfielders named in the side, along with Carragher out of position at right back and Johnson on the left.
The highlight of the first half was when Braga’s Silvio struck the crossbar with a stunning volley from 30 yards. Liverpool offered very little in attack and only livened after the introduction of Carroll for Poulsen after an hour.
Dalglish described the first half performance as “terrible” admitting “If we play at Anfield like we did in the first half here – then we will have no chance”.
The return leg is Liverpool’s next fixture.
Braga: Artur Moraes, Miguel Garcia, Kaka, Rodriguez, Silvio, Leandro Salino, Hugo Viana, Alan, Mossoro, Paulo Cesar, Lima.
Subs: Cristiano, Paulao, Helder Barbosa, Meyong, Dani, Peterson, Anibal.
Liverpool: Reina, Carragher, Skrtel, Kyrgiakos, Johnson, Lucas, Poulsen, Spearing, Cole, Meireles, Kuyt.
Subs: Gulacsi, Pacheco, Carroll, Wilson, Ngog, Maxi, Flanagan.
Attendance: 12,991
